In this episode of SovereignCast, we take a grounded look at the fast-growing conversation around data centers and security and what it may mean for Tribal Nations. As Tribal Nations across the country are trying to understand where AI is headed, tribes are weighing proposals, fielding questions about energy consumption and natural resources impacts, and how it will impact their lands, laws, and citizens. We let our curiosity explore these considerations and more.

Tracy Pearl, J.D., John Hassell, Ph.D., together with Evelyn Cox, Ph.D., and moderator Tana Fitzpatrick, J.D., discuss why AI’s rise has raised new environmental and legal concerns in data centers and what tribes could consider when approached about data centers. Throughout the episode, we hear both the cautions and the opportunities, such as how to evaluate impacts on water and energy and how open-source AI can support tribal data privacy, in an effort to inform tribal governance and policy. For leaders and community members navigating these fast-moving issues, this conversation offers practical insight rooted in sovereignty and long-term thinking.

For curious listeners, a resource list of the information discussed can be found on our website at ou.edu/nativenationscenter/sovcast. Keep an eye on the Native Nations Center for Tribal Policy Research’s website for future SovereignCasts on a variety of topics.